Universal C2642UNVME

Product Overview

Universal C2642UNVME Electronic CFL Ballast – 120–277V | Programmed Rapid Start | 1–2 Lamp | Multi-Exit

The Universal C2642UNVME is an electronic compact fluorescent ballast designed for multiple compatible 4-pin CFL, 2G11, 2G10, GR10q, and circline fluorescent lamp configurations. It operates on 120–277V AC ±10% at 50/60Hz and features Programmed Rapid Start, high power factor, series lamp connection, and an auto-reset end-of-lamp-life shutdown circuit. The ME suffix identifies the Multi-Exit configuration. Before ordering, verify the exact lamp family, lamp quantity, socket type, ballast factor, wiring configuration, and physical mounting dimensions.

Input Voltage

120–277V

50/60Hz

Lamp Count

1–2

Application Dependent

Start Type

Programmed

Rapid Start

Configuration

Multi-Exit

Warranty

5 Years

Manufacturer

Compatible Lamp Applications

(1–2) CFQ/TR26W / GX24q – 26W 4-pin compact fluorescent lamps.
(1–2) FT24W / 2G11 – 24W long twin-tube 4-pin lamps.
(1) CFM42W / GX24q – 42W 4-pin compact fluorescent lamp.
(1) CFTR32W / GX24q – 32W triple-tube compact fluorescent lamp.
(1) CFS28W / GR10q – 28W 2D / square 4-pin fluorescent lamp.
(1) CFS38W / GR10q – 38W 2D / square 4-pin fluorescent lamp.
(1) CFM36W / 2G10 – 36W compact fluorescent lamp.
(1) FC9T5 22W circline fluorescent lamp.
(1) FC12T5 40W circline fluorescent lamp.

Important: The Universal performance table confirms two-lamp operation only for the 26W CFQ/TR26W family and the 24W FT24W/2G11 family. The other listed lamp families are one-lamp applications. Do not assume all compatible lamps support two-lamp operation.

Technical Specifications

Manufacturer	Universal Lighting Technologies
Model	C2642UNVME
Product Family	Traid
ME Designation	Multi-Exit
Ballast Technology	Electronic Compact Fluorescent
Input Voltage	120–277V AC ±10%
Input Frequency	50–60Hz
125VDC Operation	Yes, (+)L / (-)N
Starting Method	Programmed Rapid Start
Lamp Connection	Series
Power Factor	High Power Factor; varies by lamp application
Total Harmonic Distortion	<10%
Crest Factor	<1.5 to <1.7 depending on lamp application
Operating Frequency	Above 60 kHz
Minimum Starting Temperature	0°F / -18°C
Maximum Case Temperature	167°F / 75°C
Sound Rating	A
End-of-Life Protection	Auto-Reset Shutdown Circuit per NEMA recommendations
Remote Mounting	Up to 12 ft
Overall Length	4.94 in
Width	2.31 in
Height	1.00 in
Mounting Dimension	4.61 in
Weight	0.57 lb
Case Material	Metal
Case Color	White
Quantity per Carton	20
Warranty	5 years from date of manufacture under stated conditions
Manufacturing	Manufactured in North America

Product Overview

The Universal C2642UNVME is designed as a multi-application electronic replacement ballast for compatible compact fluorescent and circline lamp systems. It supports both one-lamp and two-lamp configurations depending on the exact lamp family, helping reduce the number of dedicated ballast models required for service and maintenance inventory.

Programmed Rapid Start technology provides controlled lamp starting, while the auto-reset shutdown circuit is designed to shut down the ballast when end-of-lamp-life conditions are detected. Universal states that lamps will relight upon insertion after replacement.

The ME version uses a Multi-Exit housing configuration. The manufacturer also specifies that the ME input terminals marked L, N, and G are intended for one supply connection only. This detail is important when replacing another C2642UNV configuration.

Key Features

Universal Voltage: 120–277V AC ±10%, 50/60Hz.
125VDC Compatible: Also operates on 125VDC using (+)L and (-)N.
Programmed Rapid Start: Designed for controlled lamp starting.
1- or 2-Lamp Capability: Depending on the approved lamp application.
Auto-Reset End-of-Life Protection: Shutdown circuit follows NEMA recommendations.
Low-Temperature Starting: Rated down to 0°F / -18°C.
High-Frequency Operation: Above 60 kHz.
Remote Mounting: Up to 12 feet.
Class A Sound Rating.
Multi-Exit Configuration: ME suffix.
Plug-In Wire Trap Connectors: Designed for 18 AWG solid copper wire.

Before Ordering – Verify

Exact model: Confirm the required ballast is C2642UNVME.
Lead configuration: ME means Multi-Exit.
Lamp family: Match the existing lamp to the Universal compatibility table.
Lamp count: Two-lamp operation is not available for every lamp family.
Voltage: Confirm supply voltage is within the 120–277V nominal range.
Socket type: Verify GX24q, 2G11, 2G10, GR10q, or applicable circline socket.
Ballast factor: Ballast factor varies according to lamp type and configuration.
Wiring: Follow the manufacturer one-lamp or two-lamp wiring diagram.
ME input: L, N, and G input terminals are intended for one supply connection only.
Grounding: Ballast must be grounded according to national and local electrical codes.
Wire: Universal specifies 18 AWG solid copper wire stripped to 3/8".
Remote mounting: Do not exceed 12 feet.
Case temperature: Do not exceed 167°F / 75°C at the tc point.
Fixture fit: Verify 4.94" length, 2.31" width, 1.00" height, and 4.61" mounting dimension.

Safety and Installation Guidelines

Disconnect and lock out electrical power before installation or servicing.
Ballast must be grounded.
Install according to national and local electrical codes.
Use only lamp types and quantities specifically approved in the Universal performance table.
Follow the correct manufacturer wiring diagram for one-lamp or two-lamp operation.
Use 18 AWG solid copper wire stripped to 3/8" with the plug-in wire-trap connectors.
Do not exceed the 12-foot remote-mounting limitation.
Maintain ballast case temperature below 167°F / 75°C.
For two-lamp systems, Universal recommends replacing both lamps at end of life.
Installation should be performed by qualified electrical personnel.

Compliance

Meets ANSI C82.11.
Meets FCC Part 18 Non-Consumer limits for EMI/RFI.
cULus Listed Class P.
Type 1 Outdoor.
Type CC.
Type HL.
No PCBs.
Suitable for use in air-handling spaces when NEC wiring guidelines are followed.